Feeding the Birds
Creating a Wildlife- Winter Friendly Garden
Winter brings a quiet, natural beauty to the garden, but for birds and other wildlife, it can be a tough season to find food, water, and shelter. By making a few adjustments to your outdoor space, you can create a welcoming environment for these creatures during the colder months. Here’s how you can turn your garden into a wildlife-friendly winter sanctuary.
1. Provide Natural Food Sources
Birds thrive on seeds, berries, and insects, and you can support them by planting shrubs and trees that offer food year-round. Here are a few ideas:
Berry-producing shrubs like winterberry, holly, and viburnum are rich in energy-packed fruits.
Seed-bearing plants such as sunflowers, coneflowers, and ornamental grasses provide essential sustenance.
Evergreens offer both shelter and access to insects, a vital winter food source.
2. Set Up Bird Feeders
Feeders are an excellent way to supplement natural food sources and attract a variety of bird species. Consider these options:
Black-oil sunflower seeds: A universal favorite.
Suet cakes: Perfect for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eaters.
Nyjer seed: Ideal for finches and other small songbirds.
Mixed seed blends: Attract a wide range of backyard birds.
Place feeders near shrubs or trees for safe perching spots and protection from predators.
3. Keep Water Accessible
Fresh water is critical for birds during the winter, but it can be hard to come by. Adding a heated birdbath is a great solution, as it prevents freezing and ensures a steady water source. No heated birdbath? Set out a shallow dish of water and refill it regularly to keep it from freezing.
4. Provide Shelter
Safe, cozy spots for birds and small animals can make all the difference on chilly nights. Here’s how you can help:
Plant evergreens for year-round cover.
Leave brush piles of branches and twigs to create natural hiding spots.
Install birdhouses to provide warm roosting spaces.
Mulch garden beds, which creates habitats for insects—essential food for many birds.
5. Avoid Harmful Practices
Create a truly safe haven by avoiding these common pitfalls:
Skip or pesticides and herbicides: These can harm birds and their food sources.
Keep feeders clean: Wash them every two weeks to prevent disease.
Cover windows: Apply decals to large windows near feeders to prevent bird collisions.
6. Plan Ahead
A wildlife-friendly winter garden starts with year-round planning. Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers that provide food and shelter throughout all seasons.
Winter Wonders at Scenic Roots Garden Center
At Scenic, we have everything you need to create a wildlife-friendly winter garden, from a wide selection of bird seed, feeders, and bird baths to expert advice from our team. Plus, stay in the know with the latest deals, tips, and garden inspiration by downloading the Scenic Roots Garden Center app today! 👉 Download the app here.
